The Best Daycare Centers in Port Henry, NY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Port Henry. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Port Henry
Port Henry Child Care Center
Independent
A highly-regarded community-based childcare center serving Port Henry and surrounding areas with comprehensive early childhood programs. The center features a play-based learning curriculum that incorporates STEM activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. Certified teachers maintain low child-to-staff ratios, and the facility includes secure indoor learning environments with age-appropriate classrooms and outdoor play areas. The center is known for its strong parent communication, nutritious meal program, and commitment to serving families with flexible scheduling options. Specializes in preparing children for kindergarten transition with structured preschool curriculum.
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Moriah Day Care Center
Independent
Located just minutes from Port Henry in neighboring Moriah, this established childcare center serves the broader Lake Champlain region. The center offers a developmental curriculum focused on whole-child education, including creative arts, early literacy, and hands-on learning activities. Features state-licensed teachers with early childhood certifications, secure facility with monitored access, and comprehensive safety protocols. The program emphasizes outdoor education and nature exploration, taking advantage of the Adirondack setting. Parents consistently praise the center's attentive staff, clean facilities, and strong community connections. Offers part-time and full-time enrollment options.
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Ticonderoga Children's Corner
Independent
Serving families throughout the Port Henry area and eastern Adirondack region, this well-established childcare center provides comprehensive early childhood education programs. The center implements a research-based curriculum that balances structured learning with child-directed play, focusing on developmental milestones and school readiness. Features certified early childhood educators, modern security systems, and developmentally appropriate learning materials across all age groups. The facility includes dedicated infant rooms, toddler learning centers, and preschool classrooms with interactive technology. Known for exceptional parent satisfaction through regular progress updates, family engagement events, and responsive communication. Offers nutritional meals and snacks meeting state guidelines.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Port Henry, NY
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Port Henry, NY, and how can I verify a provider's status?
In Port Henry, all childcare programs caring for three or more children must be licensed or registered with the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS). This includes family daycares (in a home) and group family daycares, as well as center-based programs. Licensed providers must meet strict standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, and program activities. To verify a provider's status, you can use the OCFS "Child Care Facility Search" tool online or contact the OCFS regional office in Plattsburgh, which oversees Essex County. Always ask to see the provider's current license during your visit, and check for any past violations or enforcement actions.
What is the typical cost for full-time infant or toddler daycare in Port Henry, and are there financial assistance programs available?
In Port Henry and the surrounding Essex County area, full-time daycare for an infant can range from approximately $175 to $250 per week, while toddler care may be slightly less, around $150 to $225 per week. Costs can vary based on the type of care (center vs. home-based), hours, and included services like meals. Financial assistance is available for eligible families through the Essex County Department of Social Services (DSS). They administer the Child Care Subsidy Program, which can help cover costs based on income, family size, and need (such as employment or education). It's recommended to apply directly through the Essex County DSS office in Elizabethtown to determine eligibility.
Are there any licensed daycare centers or preschools within the Port Henry village limits, or will I need to look in neighboring towns?
Port Henry is a small village, and licensed daycare center options within the immediate village limits are very limited. Parents often need to look to neighboring communities such as Moriah, Ticonderoga, or Crown Point for center-based options. However, there are typically several licensed family daycare and group family daycare homes operating within Port Henry itself. These home-based providers offer a smaller, more intimate setting. For preschool-specific programs, you may find options through local community organizations or need to consider programs in the larger towns of the region. Checking the OCFS online search tool with a Port Henry zip code (12974) is the best way to find currently active licensed providers.
How long are waitlists for daycare in the Port Henry area, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to the limited number of providers in this rural area, waitlists for daycare, especially for infants, can be significant—often several months to over a year. It is crucial to begin your search as early as possible, ideally during pregnancy or at least 6-12 months before you need care. Contact providers directly to get on their waitlist, which may require a non-refundable deposit. Be persistent and check in periodically. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed home-based providers in nearby hamlets and towns. Networking through local parent groups on social media or community boards at places like the Port Henry Pharmacy can also yield leads on potential openings.
What are the options for before- and after-school care for school-age children in Port Henry?
For school-age children attending Moriah Central School District (which serves Port Henry), the primary option for before- and after-school care is typically the school district's own program, if offered. You should contact the Moriah Elementary School directly to inquire about availability, hours, and cost. Additionally, some licensed family daycare homes in the area may offer before- and after-school care, including transportation to and from the school bus stop. Given the rural setting, flexibility and transportation are key considerations. Community organizations like the Moriah Youth Commission may also offer seasonal or recreational programs that can help cover care gaps. Always ensure any program you choose is compliant with New York State regulations for school-age childcare.
Childcare Insights for Port Henry
For parents in Port Henry, New York, the search for reliable childcare can feel particularly challenging, especially when your schedule doesn’t fit the traditional 9-to-5 mold. Whether you work in healthcare, manufacturing, or the service industry in our region, or you simply need the flexibility that round-the-clock support provides, finding a trustworthy 24-hour daycare is a significant concern. The good news is that while options may require some dedicated searching, understanding the local landscape in the Port Henry and greater Essex County area is the first step toward finding a solution that brings peace of mind.
It’s important to begin your search with realistic expectations for our rural community. A dedicated, standalone 24-hour daycare facility directly in Port Henry may be limited. However, this does not mean quality care is unavailable. Your search should expand to include licensed home-based providers in Port Henry, Moriah, Crown Point, and Ticonderoga who may offer extended or overnight hours to accommodate shift workers. These smaller, home-style settings can provide a wonderful, consistent environment for your child. The key is to start by contacting the New York State Office of Children and Family Services or using their online provider lookup tool to find licensed providers in ZIP code 12974 and surrounding areas. This ensures any provider you consider meets state health, safety, and staffing standards.
When inquiring, be very specific about your needs. Ask potential providers not just if they *can* accommodate overnight hours, but how many children are present during those shifts, what the sleeping arrangements are, and what the protocol is for nighttime feedings or comforting. For parents in Port Henry, considering the logistics of drop-off and pick-up during late hours or in winter weather is crucial. A provider a few miles away in Westport or Elizabethtown might be a perfect fit if their hours align, but always factor in the safety and practicality of that commute, especially on Route 9N or near the bridge.
Another valuable avenue is to tap into local networks. Speak with your employer, particularly if you work at a local hospital, the mine, or a 24-hour operation. They may have partnerships or recommendations. Connecting with other parents at the Port Henry Beach, the Moriah Central School, or through community Facebook groups can yield personal referrals for caregivers who offer flexible in-home care. Sometimes, the best solution is a small network of trusted parents or a nanny share that can cover unconventional hours.
Ultimately, securing 24-hour care in our area requires patience, thorough vetting, and clear communication. Visit any potential daycare, even for a late-afternoon interview, to get a feel for the environment and the caregiver. Trust your instincts as a parent. Finding this support means more than just covering your shifts; it’s about ensuring your child is safe, nurtured, and happy at any hour, giving you the confidence to focus on your responsibilities. The search may take time, but for Port Henry families, building that trusted partnership is an investment in your child’s well-being and your own invaluable peace of mind.